On March 18, 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources unveiled significant advancements for the nation’s mining sector. The ministry announced that several local and international companies have been awarded licenses for mineral exploration at the Jabal Sa'id and Al-Hajar sites, which collectively span an impressive area of 4788 square kilometers. This strategic move aims to expedite the exploration and exploitation of Saudi Arabia's vast mineral resources, valued at an astounding 9.3 trillion riyals (approximately 2.47 trillion dollars).
The list of companies securing these coveted exploration licenses includes notable names. Ajlan & Bros Mining Company, a subsidiary of Ajlan & Bros Holding, gained a license for exploration in the southern segment of the Al-Hajar site. Meanwhile, a consortium featuring Artaar Company along with Al Dhahab and Minerals Limited Company—and owning Jakaraanda, a fully-owned subsidiary of Australian Hancock Prospecting—succeeded in obtaining a license for the northern portion of Al-Hajar.
Additionally, Vedanta Limited, recognized as one of the largest mining companies globally and hailing from India, has received the first exploration license in the Jabal Sa'id area. Furthermore, a partnership between Ajlan & Bros and Chinese Zijing Mining, listed among the top five mining companies in the world, triumphed in winning the second exploration license in this mineral-rich belt.
This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia's growing attractiveness as a destination for major mining corporations. The successful applicants underwent a rigorous competitive process where 14 submissions were reviewed. The selection criteria emphasized not only technical and operational expertise but also included assessments of social and environmental responsibilities. The ministry's commitment to sustainability and community involvement is evident in this meticulous evaluation process.
Focusing on the specific mineral compositions, the exploration zones, especially the Jabal Sa'id, are expected to reveal abundant primary and precious metals, including copper, zinc, lead, gold, and silver. The Al-Hajar site is similarly rich, with promising resources of copper and gold alongside other valuable minerals.
This major step in Saudi Arabia's mineral sector reflects a broader strategy to enhance local economies. The Ministry has projected that the companies awarded exploration licenses will invest over 366 million riyals (97.6 million dollars) within the next three years alone. Such investment is not merely about profit; it’s also about enriching the communities surrounding the mining operations. As part of their commitments, the companies have pledged over 22 million riyals (5.86 million dollars) towards community development initiatives, with a particular focus on job creation for local residents.
This investment will likely position the mining sector as a significant driver of economic growth in the region, bringing forth more opportunities for the local workforce and contributing to sustainable development. Local communities stand to benefit from enhanced infrastructure, and numerous job opportunities, thereby improving their overall economic conditions.
In summary, the recent announcement by the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources regarding new exploration licenses marks a pivotal moment for the country’s mining landscape. By inviting international expertise alongside local endeavors, Saudi Arabia is effectively laying the groundwork for tapping into its immense mineral wealth. This strategic move not only aims to accelerate resource extraction but also ensures that the accompanying economic benefits flow back into the communities that will host these operations. As the world looks on, the implications of this initiative stretch well beyond immediate financial gains, representing a proactive effort to transform and modernize Saudi Arabia's economy through responsible mining practices.
